Well, folks, it looks like we're there! All mixes have been finished and tweaked to the band's satisfaction (poor Mike!) and Mike will go down to Devon next week to "master" the album recordings with genius mastering engineer, Simon Heyworth. By now you may well have heard the samples and have some idea of what a wide-ranging body of work we have produced this time. We're all very happy and proud of the music. Some of these songs will knock you down, and some will open to you over time and become your favourites.

Once again, big thanks to those of you who kept the faith and pre-ordered "Happiness" in the jaws of the credit crunch. You won't regret it. Sorry if it seems like we're bleeding you dry - it's just that we have a lot going on!

There's been much talk and worry amongst our fans of late concerning the security of internet buying. Understandable, considering the much-publicized scams and credit-card fraud around. But don't worry - marillion.com is secure, safe, fast and easy to use (see people's own experiences below).

If you don't have a credit card, or are nervous about using one (and you really needn't worry), check out PayPal - we're all set up to use that too.

It won't be long amigos.. Hooray!

h, Ian, Mark, Pete, Steve

What Racket Records Customers have been saying...

"I've ordered many items directly from Racket and I can assure you I never had any problem. In case of delivery problem Racket team solves the issue within few hours. They offer great service and superb communication, so you shouldn't be worried."

Mariusz M. Krause - Poland

"No one should think twice. Order from the Marillion Online Shop (Racket Records) at marillion.com! I've placed several orders catching up over the last year and every order was carefully packaged, and delivered very quickly! I'm in Canada and I've been getting my orders from Racket faster than Canadian online retailers – don’t know how you do it!"

Merlin Watts - Halifax, Canada

"I can attest that ordering from Racket has been easy and hassle free. In addition, whenever I've had questions about my order, Racket staff has been more than helpful in answering my questions (usually within hours of my original e-mail). Overall, I'd say it's been a joy to deal directly with Racket and I have NO hesitation in doing so."